NEWS: BREAKIN’ CONVENTION @ PLAYHOUSE WHITLEY BAY

The acclaimed international festival of hip-hop dance theatre returns to Whitley Bay

By Claire Dupree
on Monday, May 9th, 2016

Iron Skulls by Paul Hampartsoumian

Here’s one for the movers and shakers (quite literally); the acclaimed international festival of hip-hop dance theatre, Breakin’ Convention, returns to Whitley Bay’s Playhouse on Saturday 14th May, bringing some world-class talent to the region and showcasing some top local troupes too.

Curated by hip-hop choreographer Jonzi D, the touring event is widely recognised as one of the foremost celebrations of hip-hop culture, providing developmental and youth projects alongside an enviable educational programme.

Three astonishing international acts provide headline entertainment, including France’s Antoinette Gomis, whose Images show is an atmospheric solo inspired by the music of Nina Simone and civil rights. Barcelona’s award-winning Iron Skulls crew present the surreal Sinestesia, a dynamic work where the skilled dancers morph into post-apocalyptic survivors, merging hip-hop, acrobatics and contemporary dance; while world champion bboy crew The Ruggeds, from the Netherlands, perform the high octane Adrenaline. Local performers include The Battalions, South Tyneside’s Custom Breaks, Dance Jam and Flava Bay.

In addition to the performances, there will be DJs, graffiti art, workshops, freestyling and much more, with hosts Jonzi D and Ken Masters.